1979 Datsun 280 vs. 2007 Skoda Octavia
To start off, 2007 Skoda Octavia is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Datsun 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Datsun 280 would be higher. At 2,751 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Datsun 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Datsun 280 (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2007 Skoda Octavia. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun 280 should accelerate faster than 2007 Skoda Octavia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Skoda Octavia weights approximately 153 kg more than 1979 Datsun 280.
Because 1979 Datsun 280 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1979 Datsun 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Skoda Octavia, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2007 Skoda Octavia (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Skoda Octavia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 2007 Skoda Octavia | |
| Make | Datsun | Skoda |
| Model | 280 | Octavia |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 1966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 188 km/hour | 207 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2580 mm |
